Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible
Competitors 2003:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for sporty handling, balanced chassis, and responsive steering.
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth and powerful M54 inline-six engine known for its linear power delivery.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW build quality with premium interior materials and robust construction.
Markets Covered:
Global (primarily North America, Europe)
Model Variants Covered:
BMW 328i Sedan, Coupe, Convertible
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Transmission (GM A5S360R/RWD, Getrag 420G/6-speed manual), Drivetrain (Rear-wheel drive)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering (Hydraulic power steering), Brakes (Front: Ventilated discs, Rear: Solid discs, ABS, DSC)
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting, sensors, starter, alternator, battery
Bodywork:
Body repair, panel replacement, interior trim, climate control, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic connector locations, specific component testing
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, throttle body calibration, idle speed adjustment, headlight aiming
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition with individual coil-on-plug (COP) units
Emissions Control:
Secondary air injection system, catalytic converter, EGR (where applicable)
Type Automatic:
GM A5S360R/RWD 5-speed automatic
Type Manual:
Getrag 420G 6-speed manual
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode)
Fluid Type:
Dexron III or Dexron VI compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 or Pentosin MTF 2
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for equipped models)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional rear side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional CD/RDS radio, optional navigation system (MKIV)
Speaker System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio
Parking Assist:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface
Climate Control:
Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (IHKA)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or based on driving conditions.
Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved) or SAE 5W-40 Synthetic. Capacity: 6.5 quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU816X, Mahle OX38D
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage (DOT 4)
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial fill for life, or typically replaced every 4-5 years / 60,000 miles if a flush is performed.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III/VI or Pentosin CHF 11S (check vehicle specifics, early E46 may differ slightly, manual will clarify)
Washer Fluid:
BMW Windshield Washer Fluid or equivalent with de-icing additive
Common Problems:
Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid/actuator issues, oil separator (CCV) system failure leading to vacuum leaks, sagging headliner, power steering hose leaks, window regulator failures.
Spark Plug Type Part Number Example:
NGK BKR6EQUP or Bosch FR7DCX+ (typically 6 required)
Air Filter Part Number Example
Air Filter:
Mann-Filter C35177/2, Mahle LX802
Manufacturer Focus:
Performance, luxury, and engineering excellence dating back to 1916.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution of the 3 Series, known for its driving dynamics and refined styling.
328I Placement:
The 328i served as a mid-range model within the E46 lineup, positioned above the 325i and below the 330i, offering a strong balance of performance and refinement.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria (Graz), South Africa, Thailand
General Accolades:
The E46 generation, including the 328i, consistently received critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, engineering, and overall desirability.
Car And Driver:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and handling, with some variability in reliability depending on specific components and maintenance history.
